22 Jan 2024 | 05:11 AM UTC
China: Magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurs in western Xinjiang Province at around 12:33 CST Jan. 22
Magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurs in Xinjiang Province, China, at around 12:33 CST Jan. 22. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.
A magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurred in western Xinjiang Province at around 12:33 CST Jan. 22. The epicenter was about 117 km (73 miles) northeast of Aksu. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 27 km (17 miles), and weak shaking was probably felt across western Xinjiang Province and parts of eastern Almaty Region in Kazakhstan and eastern Kyrgyzstan. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Aftershocks are possible over the coming days.
Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage. Minor disruptions could occur during shutdowns, but service will likely resume quickly if no damage is found. Utility outages are possible, particularly near the earthquake's epicenter.
Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.
